How to deal with beggars in India

Let’s be clear on this. India is no longer a poor country.

There was a time when people used to die of starvation. But things have changed, no such thing is happening any more.

However, You will still find poor people on the streets sleeping rough but not all of them will be beggars.

The Indian government has done lots to uplift the people of India out of poverty.

But…

You do find beggars on the streets:)

Many of them are concentrated at religious places. You go to a temple, a mosque, a church or a gurudwara (a Sikh place of worship) and you will be swamped by beggars.

(More on Hinduism here)

You will find some at traffic lights. As soon as the car or taxi stops, you will find beggars knocking on your car window.

To be honest, most of them look perfectly fine and able to work. These beggars are not beggars in the real sense but opportunists.

They just want to feed on your emotions….

So how do you deal with beggars in India?

You can shoo them away,

Give them money,

Just ignore them and do nothing,

Give them something to eat like a biscuit or something,

Take them to a restaurant and feed them,

Don’t stop, keep walking as if you don’t care,

Give them a fresh bottle of water and say this is all you have,

Tell them you don’t have money,

Tell them they look perfectly fine and they don’t need any money,

Keep your windows up,

Tell them to get lost,

Beat them up (not really).

Begging in India has become a business. You’ll be surprised to know that in some cases, beggars have been found to be millionaires. 

Just take a look at this video 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSF_5MzA8cU

If your heart does cry out for these beggars, perhaps you could spare a few change. It’s up to you entirely.

Enjoy India. India is almost beggar free.

Is public display of affection allowed in India?

If you are coming to India from the States or Europe, you are in for a shock. Unlike the West, we Indians are not allowed to show affection at least in public. In fact, there’s a law that prevents obscenity in the open. The “Indian Penal Code Section” 294 (a) states: Whoever, to the annoyance of others does any obscene act in any public place, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three months, or with fine, or with both.

Basically what’s happening is that touch is somehow perceived as interlinked with sex in India? For example, we Indians think that mouth-to-mouth kissing is a western concept and therefore not really something that we should be doing in public. But many of us do not know the origins of kissing were first mentioned in the Mahabharata. Historians have found the earliest references to the practice of lip kissing in the Mahabharata dated 1500 B.C. and the reference continued with the Kama Sutra with many descriptive verities of kissing and having sex. Another interesting point is that the conquering armies of Alexander and his army learnt the art of kissing from the Indians. This doesn’t mean Indians were the first to invent kissing; it simply means that it was first mentioned in texts where people appeared to be kissing.

India Travel Survival Guide For Women

Funny thing is that if you have been to India before, you probably have seen two men holding hands. This doesn’t mean they are gay, they just happen to be friends. But on the other hand if a boy and a girl hold hands in public – this is frowned upon. Boys do not shy away from showing this intimacy. However, show of affection and intimacy between men and women is frowned upon throughout India.

So what is allowed and not allowed

Kissing in public

Kissing may be the universal language of love but kissing on the lips is a definitely a no go area in India. This is dangerous territory. However, an innocent goodbye kiss at the International airport would probably be fine but not at the railway station while smooching at a restaurant is definitely not a good idea.

Holding hands

Holding hands in most areas of India would be acceptable. It may seem strange but even men do it (this might seem bizarre to the western eye but there is nothing sexual about it).  If you wanted to hold hands or wanted to put your arms around your partner’s shoulders, feel free to do so as that would be fine and is not a public offence.

Hugging

Hugging is quite a new concept in India different to the traditional Namaste where the hands are folded together and the head is bowed. I see more and more people hugging to show affection. There’s even a saint called, “Mata Amritanandamayi Devi” from Kerala popularly known as Amma, the hugging saint. Hugging is acceptable.

This is certainly one of the many paradoxes of India. In a country where rape is common, groping is considered almost acceptable, there are erotic and sensuous sculptures on temples expressing love in its unique forms, men peeing on the side of the road, street animals openly copulating – human intimacy is a curious contradiction. Here’s more on how to stay safe in India.

Hope this article was useful and if you have any questions relating to your travels to India, you can ask here or send me a message.

5 essential monsoon travel items for India

If you are travelling to India this monsoon then you might wish to take some of these essentials with you. Although it’s not necessary and you will be able to buy all these items when you get to India but nonetheless, you might wish to take your own.

Mosquito bands or repellents

These are essential as mosquitoes breed in large numbers during the monsoons so you might wish to take some mosquito bands. Good thing about them is that you can wear them on your clothing or you can attach them to your bag. It creates a protective halo around you which will help you against malaria and dengue fever (Delhi is famous for this).

Rain coat or jacket and Umbrella

A rain coat or jacket is going to be essential if you are visiting India during the monsoons. But do make sure they are light and thin as most parts of India are still warm even during the rainy seasons.

This goes without saying but bring a small one so that you can fold it away in your bag.

Sunscreen

If you have a sensitive skin then you bring a bottle of your favourite sunscreen.

Waterproof shoes

When it rains in India – it rains like crazy. So bring a pair of waterproof shoes. If you can, try to avoid slippers during the rainy season in India.

Don’t let the rains let you down. In many parts of the world rain is a nuisance but in India it’s a welcome change. Here’s a comprehensive packing list for India.

India Travel Health Guide: Health Advice and Tips for Travelers to India

Remedies to Treat Travel Constipation

When you travel, your routine gets thrown off – and constipation may be one of the consequences. People are creatures of habit, including when it comes to going to the bathroom. Everyone has a time when they do this, and when the schedule is thrown off, it can be disruptive. Other gastrointestinal problems, such as bloating, diarrhea and indigestion, are even more likely to develop while you are traveling. However, the risk of travel constipation may be increased by certain factors such as dehydration resulting from air travel, traveling across time zones, nit drinking sufficient water or drinking more alcohol than usual.

The good news is that there are many remedies that you can use to treat travel constipation. Maintaining your regular eating and drinking habits as well as you can while traveling is the best way to ensure regular bowel movement.

• Drink plenty of water and clear fluids – Have you been drinking less water than usual during your trip? Make sure that this does not happen. Dehydration is one of the causes of constipation. Drinking plenty of water and clear fluids can help keep you regular while you are away from home. While it may not completely relieve the problem, it can help in softening stool so that you do not experience pain and discomfort while passing them. Also, make sure that you avoid drinking caffeinated or alcoholic beverages as they can cause dehydration.

• Make sure that you eat enough fiber – When you travel, you obviously do not get home-cooked meals. However, you should make sure that you eat fiber-rich foods such as cereals, fresh vegetables, dried and fresh fruit, beans, whole grain crackers and bread. Keep in mind that the recommended amounts are 2 cups of fruit and 2 ½ cups of vegetables daily. You can carry breakfast foods such as high-fiber cereals and flaxseeds so that you get plenty of fiber and a healthy breakfast even when you are traveling.

• Avoid low-fiber foods –Your meals will be from restaurants and your hotel when you travel. However, you should make it a point to avoid low-fiber foods in excess if possible. You should try to avoid foods like pizza, cheese, chips, candy, ice cream and processed foods, to name a few. They can worsen your constipation. It can be difficult to maintain your dietary routine when you are away from home – you will probably not eat the healthiest foods and you may eat on the go a lot more, resulting in constipation. But avoiding certain foods can help you prevent or relieve the problem.

• Stay active – Even when you are traveling, it is important to exercise or doing yoga and make sure that you stay physically active. Your body needs to move constantly so that your digestive system also keeps moving. You should schedule stretching breaks, especially if you are in a plane, train, bus or car for long periods. Make it a point to swim, bike or hike when you can. This will help immensely in treating travel constipation.

As you can see, it does not take much to treat travel constipation. It is all about making sure that you eat right and keep your body physically active. Remember that traveling is a time to watch what you eat and other routines even more rather than less.

Top 3 most common mistakes tourists make when visiting India

It is pretty natural, that some people tend to act a little bit weird and inappropriate then they travel to some faraway places. India is one of these countries, where tourists tend to make many mistakes that can offend local people and might even ruin the whole trip. And nobody wants that! So because of it, I am going to share with you 3 main and usually made mistakes in India that many tourists do and don’t even think about it. It will help you to avoid any unnecessary problems and let you enjoy India the best!

Greeting Hindi words and phrases for those travelling to India

Here are some more Hindi words, phrases and sentences for those travelling to India. The ones I have included this time is greeting words which you can use with someone in North India. You should be able to use some Hindi in many parts of South India as well except states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. For more Hindi travel words and phrases, please read this post.

Hindi help words and phrases with audio for your travels to India

Here are some useful Hindi help related words and phrases that you might wish to memorise in case you need them in India. Remember these are Hindi words, so if you are travelling in the South of India particularly in the state of Kerala and Tamil Nadu; there is limited scope that they will understand them. But if you are travelling in North, Central and the Deccan areas of India (limited), you will be understood (covering large sections of India).

Ice in your drink – think again

Take a look at the picture below and see if you can guess what those blocks are. If you have guessed it, well and good but if you haven’t then let me tell you! They are blocks of ice. These blocks of ice seem to have been frozen in some large container and thrown outside and destined to end up on a drink stall like a lassi bar or probably waiting to be delivered to a restaurant or a bar.

How to travel to India?

If you are considering travelling to India but didn’t know how then keep on reading. First, let me congratulate you for considering visiting India. I think it’s an excellent choice and I am sure you will not be disappointed. You might find the country a little crowded and perhaps a little hot if you are coming to India during the summers but all in all, it’s a great choice and there is always something to do and fascinating to see. If you are considering India, then this is right time to come. India has the best weather between the months of November and March. Although it can get cold in some parts of India but generally the climate is suited for those coming from the West.

What to wear in India?

What to wear in India? What kind of clothes would be safe to wear? What should I pack? Can I carry my shorts along? Should I carry cotton or linen or woollens or all? Should I carry flats or high heels? Are these questions in your mind too? Well then read along, as I pen down some basic tips that would help you pack that bag for your trip to India.

5 things you need for summer travel in India

Summer is now upon us in India and its getting hotter by the day. The temperatures in most places here are going to get even hotter – sometimes the temperatures are more than 40 degree Celsius in places like Delhi. It’s not something that we like but we have to bear it.

If you are planning a trip to India in the summer then there are a few things that you must use to beat the heat in India.

More travel Hindi with audio

This is a follow up of the previous audio post on Hindi I did for travellers going to India. Hindi is the one of the official languages and most widely spoken language in India. Hence learning a few words and phrases can go a long way. Although English will do, there is no harm in learning a little bit of Hindi. Except the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, you should be able to communicate in Hindi in most parts of India.  

Tipping in India

I recently got asked about tipping in India. Here’s the actually question.

I found your website on line…thank you so much for all your honest and easy information. I am going to India at the end of this month and will stay for 2 weeks at an ashram and am then traveling around for 11 days with a tour company called India by Car. My question for you is what is traditional and acceptable tipping in India…for example, at hotels, for the company driver, the cab driver etc. I want to be respectful but not flashy. Do you have any suggestions as to day tips for the driver or at the hotel? Is it a day trip or a percentage? How is it best to figure out a fair tip?

Essential Hindi Words And Phrases For Travelers To India now in paperback

My Hindi book “Essential Hindi Words And Phrases For Travelers To India” is now available in paperback. As mentioned before, it contains important Hindi words, phrases and sentences a traveler might want to use whilst their stay in India. In addition, the book also contains conversational Hindi, a traveler will need to get most of their work done and understood without much hassle.

Essential Hindi words and phrases for travelers to India ebook

Those traveling around the world know the drawbacks of not knowing the local language hence I had recorded the most common Hindi words and phrases here for those visiting India. I have now gone a little further and decided to list some of the most important Hindi words, phrases and conversation in an ebook format.

5 top tips to enjoy traveling during the magical monsoons in India

Most westerners prefer to come to India from September to March when the weather is cool in most parts of India. But a few brave ones arrive during Monsoons also, when the whole country is experiencing the magic of Monsoons.

There are a lot of things you can do during the monsoons to enjoy and have a pleasant stay in India like chasing the monsoon, enjoying the delicious hot Pakoras or bhajiyas with tea while it rains outside. But Monsoons also bring with them their own set of problems also like water logging, floods, a lot of mosquitoes and flies. All these factors combined can make anybody run away from India except for the very brave.

Making phone calls in and from India

Being away from home in a foreign country, its natural for one to connect to the loved ones every now and then. Making that phone call home would actually reinvigorate you for the rest of the journey in India. Since making a call comes under the very basic needs of a person, one should definitely be well- informed of the options.

So what are the options available while travelling in India for making phone calls? Let’s find out! 

Can a woman pee like a man - female urination devices for your travels to India?

India is great fun but the fun can fizz out if you see some of the toilets India has to offer. The toilets in your hotel room will most likely be western style but if you are out and about and if you want to pee and most likely you want to, then you are in bad luck. You will have to deal with Indian style squat toilets and it’s not easy using it. If you happen to be travelling in trains then it’s even worse. You not only have to deal with a moving train but also the toilets are dam right dangerous. Guess where the ‘poo’ and the ‘pee’ drain on to. Yes – straight on the tracks! That is why most trains have signs requesting passengers not to use them on platforms. Even Indian ladies try not to use them unless they really have to, let alone foreign tourists travelling to India. It’s not going to be easy for a western lady to pull their pants down and bend their bum all the way down to the ground not to mention that they can get mosquito bites when the’re down there. If you’re not sure how to use the Indian toilet then read here.

Arriving at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport

Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi will perhaps be the entry point for most foreign travellers to India. I have always wondered why this airport was not named after Mahatma Gandhi since he is considered as the father of the nation. Anyway, from a personal point of view, this is the worst International airport I have seen and rightly so, it was once considered as the worst airport in the world by an international consortium (can’t remember which one). The reason why I say this is because I have found the toilets semi unusable, absence of decent restaurants (good coffee by the way), unsupportive staff, long and slow queues, no decent baby changing facilities, overcrowding and so no; you get the drift. But anyway, you can’t judge a country by its airports!

Traffic in India - what to expect

When you arrive in India for the first time, you are in for a big culture shock depending on which part of the world you’re coming from as far as traffic in India is concerned. At its best, its chaotic, which is perhaps a light word to describe the traffic in India; the word better used would be “manic”. As soon as you step out of the airport, you’re going to feel extremely hot. Imagine this, you have something cooking in the oven and you want to check if it’s done or not so you open the door with your face close to the oven and then it hits you, the heat of course. This is exactly what it’s like walking out of the airport in India in the summer.